Spelthorne Borough Council fights unauthorised developments

Spelthorne Borough Council highlighted a spate of purchases of small green spaces, often designated public highways

A council in Surrey is fighting back against the unauthorised development of small green spaces.

Spelthorne Borough Council said there had been a spate of purchases of land with development value, often designated public highways.

"Unfortunately, as a council we cannot prevent this, but we can look to ensure restrictions which may be in place are enforced," a spokesman said.

The authority is urging residents to report unauthorised work.

The council's planning enforcement team and Surrey County Highways recently took action against the new owners of land in Denman Drive, Ashford, who attempted to fence off the land and restrict access to the public.

Councillor Malcolm Beecher, chair of the environment and sustainability committee, said small areas of land designed as part of residential developments were seen as "an easy target" by developers.

"I would urge residents to report unauthorised work straight away so that they can be investigated by our enforcement team," he said.

Council leader Joanne Sexton added that "quick and decisive action" would help protect such green spaces.

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